Irish Coast Guard helicopter in Sligo completes record number of missions in 2015

By Terry Spruce
December 1, 2015 10:42

The Irish Coast Guard (IRCG) helicopter will have completed more than 300 search and rescue (SAR) missions by the end of this calendar year.

The “Rescue 118” service operating from Sligo is delivered by CHC Helicopter on behalf of the IRCG. The CHC team, which operates bases in Dublin, Shannon, Waterford, and Sligo, has completed 877 missions so far in 2015.

“Our crews are proud to have completed such a high number of missions and brought so many people home safely in 2015.”

Chris Hodson, general operations manager for SAR at CHC Helicopter said: “Our crews are proud to have completed such a high number of missions and brought so many people home safely in 2015.”

“CHC operates one of the world’s largest and most sophisticated SAR networks and we have invested heavily in our four bases in Ireland so that we can offer a safe, reliable service with the highest levels of availability,” added Hodson.

Peter O’Hagan, base manager for CHC in Ireland, said the company’s five technologically advanced Sikorsky S-92 helicopters helped to achieve the mission record at Sligo.

“As well as longer range and improved cruising speeds, the fleet is equipped with enhanced rescue mission technology, including infrared and low light cameras, a ‘night sun’ searchlight, a modern dual-hoist system, and a satellite communications system.”

O’Hagan said: “As well as longer range and improved cruising speeds, the fleet is equipped with enhanced rescue mission technology, including infrared and low light cameras, a ‘night sun’ searchlight, a modern dual-hoist system, and a satellite communications system. The crews also complete helicopter emergency medical services, responding to vital air ambulance operational requirements.”